Words by Kairen Kemp
www.cinestock.co.uk
The newly restored Art Deco Saltdean Lido is wonderful to behold with its smooth, elegant lines and sea going liner design. Regarded as “probably the most architecturally significant open-air pool in the country” by The 20th Century Society the most iconic and only coastal Art Deco Lido in the UK is located right on the beach, in Saltdean, just outside Brighton. On arrival and throughout the staff couldn’t be more welcoming and helpful.
Tonight Cinestock are screening ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ the story of the legendary British rock band Queen and lead singer Freddie Mercury. There is a delightful, chilled vibe across the venue with some of the audience swimming in the fading afternoon light. The BBQ for the Cinestock event was very tasty. My veggie skewers were excellent and my companion’s chicken was succulent. We both ordered chips which were perfect but too much for either of us to finish.
The evening starts with an acoustic set from Arden. He was a perfect choice for the event and although he announced that he was unusually nervous it didn’t impair his striking voice and a pleasing repertoire. As the sun sets everyone settles into the chairs they’ve brought but if you’d forgotten you are able to hire cushions and blankets to make yourselves comfortable. The blue lit sign for the lido is reflected, shimmering, in the pool.
The award winning ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ film was a perfect choice for all ages and one group of the audience were swaying with their hands above their heads to the well-known songs. At the moving end of the showing most of us sang along to ‘We Are The Champions’ as the credits rolled.
It was a delightful evening and I can’t recommend more highly that you should make your way to Saltdean Lido on 6thSeptember for their next showing ‘Wonka’. If you wish to go further afield there are other similar events being held across the summer so check out the Cinestock website.
September 6th Wonka @cinestockuk @aka.arden
https://www.cinestock.co.uk/venues-outdoor-cinema/saltdean-lido
